A Unique Experience - Sustainable Living Cabins! Visitors to Buchanan County’s signature park, Fontana, will be able to enjoy overnight comfort while being conscious of conservation and the environment. People can now click on the 'Facilities' tab to reserve a cabin! Fontana Park is located nine miles north of Independence or one mile south of Hazleton, off Highway 150, and is managed by the Buchanan County Conservation Board. “We are quite excited about this project,” said Conservation Board President Roger Johnson. “The cabins are one-of-a-kind in combining comfort with a strong conservation message.”

The cabins' comforts and amenities are complimented by natural beauty, park attractions, and promotion of a sustainable lifestyle. Each cabin comfortably sleeps five, with two private bedrooms, kitchenette, and a private bathroom with shower. Vaulted ceilings, wood-sided interiors, and exterior wood siding from trees harvested in Buchanan County. Each cabin has a porch, table, grill, and fire ring. A private drive for cabin users provides access to the cabins. The cabins are situated near the woodland trails and prairie on the northwest part of the park.

Conservation and Energy Efficiency The cabins are off-grid – receiving all electrical needs through roof-mounted solar panels with battery storage. Cabin construction makes use of energy efficient: structural insulated panels (SIPs), triple pane windows, water conserving faucets and toilets, and more. Details of the sustainability features will be prevalent, with educational displays and printed materials. Cabin users will be able to view meters that indicate the flow of electricity from the solar panels and the supply of stored energy in the batteries.

Non-motorized boats are welcome to explore the section of Otter Creek north of the Nature Center. The water is relatively shallow, and many birds and other wildlife species may be observed. There is a small loading and unloading area near the Nature Center. A round-trip up the creek and back typically takes less than 2 hours.

Enjoy an educational program at Fontana Park. For a complete list f offerings see our "Events" page. Teachers and community group leaders may also schedule a program with a naturalist. For more information see our "For Teachers" page.

Groomed cross country ski trails are available to visitors during the winter. Call 319-636-2617 to check on trail conditions before your visit. Fontana Lake also offers ice fishing, and a portion of the ice is usually cleared for skaters each winter.